The European Union and the Western Balkans have embarked on a journey towards a common future. With increasing challenges faced by the Western Balkans in their digitalisation path, the EU needs to reinforce engagement in digital transformation with Western Balkan partners. Amidst the current geopolitical environment and with the strategic importance of digital technologies, this partnership is of key significance. If done right, it can generate ample mutual benefits and pave the way for future integration of Western Balkans with the EU.

Western Balkans face several hurdles on their path to digital transformation, such as a shortage of digitally skilled workers, infrastructure needs and a varied level of digitalisation of government services. In response, the EU hopes to demonstrate that it can be a reliable partner in the era of the digital revolution. Furthermore, the EU agreed in May to set up a Reform and Growth Facility for the Western Balkans, a new instrument to support EU-related reforms and economic growth in the region, with a focus on integration of the region into the Digital Single Market.

It is in this context that the European DIGITAL SME Alliance proposes A New Digital Agenda for the Western Balkans with five policy recommendations promoting the EU’s human-centred approach to digital technologies. These recommendations also put at the centre the needs of the EU’s Western Balkan partners.

The event featured an exchange with relevant EU and national policymakers, and Western Balkans partners with a dedicated panel discussion to address the need to build innovative and digital entrepreneurship in the region.